Overview of the British Virgin Islands

Quick Overview

The British Virgin Islands (also known as the BVI) are a small archipelago made up of four main inhabited islands: Tortola (59.2 km²; 25,000 inhabitants), which hosts the capital and services, Virgin Gorda (21.2 km²; 3,900 inhabitants), Anegada (38.6 km²; 300 inhabitants), and Jost Van Dyke (8.3 km²; 300 inhabitants), plus various uninhabited or private islets. Located east of Puerto Rico, the archipelago is part of a larger group called the Virgin Islands, which also includes the U.S. Virgin Islands and a few islands (Culebra, Vieques...) belonging to Puerto Rico. Administratively, the BVI is a British Overseas Territory.

Key Facts

• Location: in the Caribbean, east of Puerto Rico.

• Latitude/longitude: 18.30' N, 64.30' W.

• Local time: Heure : 7271.

• Capital: Road Town.

• Nature of the state: British Overseas Territory.

• Official language: English.

• Currency: US dollar.

• Population: 35,802 inhabitants (2018).

• Area: 151 km².

• Density: 237 inhabitants/km².

• Highest point: Mount Sage (521 m) on Tortola.

• Lowest point: sea level.

• Coastline:

• Driving: on the left.

• Flag: [drapeau: British Virgin Islands]

Tourism

Like many other islands in the region, the BVI are a top destination for beach tourism and cruises, catering primarily to North American visitors. In fact, the sector accounts for 45% of the local GDP.

Each year, tens of thousands of people visit the islands (192,000 in 2018), and even more if you include cruise passengers who stop for a few hours, particularly in Tortola. Additionally, the BVI are a premier destination for sailors in the Caribbean. While traditionally a favorite among North Americans, since 2016 the islands have been trying to attract European visitors, particularly French travelers, through promotional campaigns.

Travel Essentials

• Destination: for beginner travelers.

• By air: France-Tortola.

• Entry requirements: passport.

• Currency to bring: US dollar.

• Exchange rate:

• Daily budget for budget travelers:

• Best for accommodation:

• Best for getting around:

• Risks: low health and safety risks.

• Best time for climate/crowds/prices: April, June to early July, or alternatively early December.

• Interests (out of ★★★★): Nature ★/ ★★; Adventure ⊘; Culture ★; Relaxation/Holidays ★★★★.

Addresses in France

Tourist Office: online only (in English).

Addresses in Belgium, Switzerland, and Quebec

Socio-Economic Statistics

• Quality of life:

• GDP per capita: $34,200 (2017)

• Average monthly income:

• Inflation: +1.1% (2017)

• Official unemployment rate: 2.9% (2015)

• Population below the poverty line:

• Life expectancy: 78.9 years (2018)

• Migration rate per 1,000 inhabitants: +16.5 (2017)

• Population growth: +2.2% (2018)

• Literacy rate:

• Urban population: 47.7% (2018)

• Press freedom: 35/180 (rank in 2018)

• Political regime:

Sources: World Bank, Human Development Indicators, RSF, The Economist, The World Factbook